Prince Caspian by C.S. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Let’s get one thing straight: I read Prince Caspian for Ben Barnes. No shame, no regrets. I loved him as a kid, and I still love him now. Sorry, not sorry.
Now, onto the book.
The plot of Prince Caspian felt repetitive to me- why is Narnia always in turmoil? Can’t it just be a peaceful, magical land for once? This time, the story revolves around Prince Caspian, who’s forced to flee after discovering that his uncle, King Miraz, wants him dead. Meanwhile, the Pevensie siblings are magically transported back to Narnia after years away, only to find the land in chaos. They team up with Caspian to fight for Narnia’s freedom, hoping to finally establish a just ruler.
I’ll admit, part of my enjoyment came from picturing the movie cast in every scene. But even without that mental imagery, I found myself really invested in the story. Still a bit embarrassed that I’m enjoying this series so much at my age but loving it nonetheless.
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Book Review: The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S Lewis (Chronicles of Narnia #1)
The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Do I even need to review The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe? It feels like we all know this story by now. Four kids stumble into a wardrobe and end up in a magical world. Classic.
But honestly, I loved it all over again. This book reminded me why Narnia is so magical- C.S. Lewis’s world-building is incredible, from the snowy woods to the grand battles. And seeing Aslan again brought back all the feelings I had as a kid. SO MUCH COMFORT!
Once again, I found myself completely enchanted. Maybe I am a reader of children’s books now.
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Life Lessons I Learnt Being the Youngest Person in the Office
categories: Welcome to The Real World
It’s become clearer to me to that not everyone had the same “office education” that I did which is interesting. I mentioned once before that people have a really low opinion of the call center which is why I thought it was interesting that I picked up so life education there. Here are some of the biggest lessons I learned:
1. Work Ethic
I was lucky that from my very first day, I was paired up with people who were excellent at their jobs. So I strove for that same level of excellence. When I realised that not every workplace operates like that, it was a culture shock. Why would you not want to perform at your best???
2. Punctuality is Non-Negotiable
In a call center, being late wasn’t an option. Logging in on time wasn’t just about personal discipline—it directly impacted performance metrics and team workflows. I quickly learned that punctuality wasn’t just about avoiding a late mark; it was about reliability and respect for my team.
3. Professionalism Starts with the Basics
One of the first things I learned was how to write a proper email. Clear, concise and professional communication set the tone for how colleagues and clients perceived me. Whether it was crafting a well-structured email, knowing when to CC someone or simply using the right greeting, these small details mattered.
4. How to Handle Different Perspective
This is a skill I’ve noticed not too many people have. Callers have different personalities, mood and expectations but beyond that so do your colleagues. A good call center (sorry, but not all call centers have this) has a mix of people and this mix respects each other. Different backgrounds, cultures, races, personalities all working together to achieve a team goal.
5. Financial Responsibility
One of the most unexpected but valuable lessons I learned was the importance of financial security. Conversations with colleagues made me realize I needed an emergency fund and a retirement savings plan- things I might not have considered so early in my career.
6. Resilience
You do not know resilience until you’ve worked a customer-facing job. There were days when the calls felt endless, the customers were frustrated, and the workload was overwhelming. But I learned how to handle stress, reset after a tough interaction, and keep going. The resilience I built in the call center has helped me handle challenges in every job I’ve had since.
7. Advocate for Yourself
I was lucky to work with a team that taught me to advocate for myself even when it seemed difficult. Whether it was asking for opportunities, voicing concerns or negotiating for a better workload, I learnt to speak up for myself.
Working in a call center was more than just a job-it was a masterclass in professionalism, resilience, and financial literacy. Not everyone had the same experience I did, but for me, it shaped how I approach work and life. The skills I developed there still serve me today, and I wouldn’t trade those lessons for anything.
Midweek Motivation
categories: Uncategorized
7 Signs Your Job Might Be in Danger
When your job is in danger, you’ll know it. You’ll see (and feel) it long before the official dismissal. But how do you know if it’s all in your head or something you need to be concerned about?
Here are 7 signs that your job might be in danger:
1. You’re given fewer projects or you’re given dead-end projects
This is an early warning sign that the company is preparing to get rid of you. If your workload starts looker smaller, be wary. Of course if the company is rebranding or restructuring, workloads might be smaller while they try to figure out their way forward. Look at your colleagues. If they still have normal workloads while you don’t, you might be on the chopping block.
2. You’re not invited to meetings that concern your work
This is a very minor sign that could mean your job is in danger or just that you were overlooked. Sometimes meetings are held without those who need to be in the meetings. It can be human error so just weigh this one with the other things on this list.
3. Management seems to have disappeared
This happened to me when I was about to be laid off and it was hilarious to me. I worked remotely and my manager- who was often not available- was somehow even LESS available during the period when I knew that I was going to be laid off at some point. Managers sometimes feel awkward about this so they’d try to avoid you.
4. You’re asked to train someone on what you do
Be very very wary of this. If you’re training someone and management hasn’t discussed you taking on a senior role, they might be trying to pass off your responsibilities to someone else.
5. You’re handing off your work to someone else
This is different from the above because in this case, you will be asked to draw up a specific handover document or a document detailing everything you do. This is to help the person who takes your duties.
6. You’re doing less work
During a round of layoffs at my friend’s company, her workload got so small that we were able to meet for lunch weekly. Since we hadn’t seen each other in years, we made the most of the opportunity but this was a glaring sign that a layoff was looming for her.
7. Your performance reviews are increasingly negative
This could be a sign that 1) you’re doing really badly at your job (in which case there should be a performance plan put in place to help you improve) or 2) you’re just not meeting the expectations that the business has for you. Sometimes businesses and employees just don’t match. It’s no one’s fault. But if you’re getting increasingly negative performance reviews along with a few other items on this list, you might be headed for a dismissal.
While it can be scary to think about losing your job, spotting these signs early ensures that you’re able to make a back-up plan whether this is adjusting your expenses or looking for another job.
Reimagining What Workplace Success Looks Like
categories: Career
I learnt the importance of decentering your career very early on in life. Or atleast I should have.
Back in 2019, the company my dad worked at liquidated, and we were all shocked. Never in my wildest dreams would I have expected that to happen. But that was the first taste of me learning one of the reasons decentering your career is important. In cases like this, you have to deal both with the financial and emotional fallout. Unfortunately, while I learnt the lesson in theory, the practical application took a bit longer.
When I started my first “big girl job” as I liked to call it, I was only a few months in when I discovered that a colleague, Mary had been forced to leave. Details weren’t clear. I just know that she was upset and people were whispering that she was forced out because of her age.
I cried. Mary had been there on my first day and she explained the system to me (I had no clue what she did at the time but she was an absolute angel). On her last day, she wished everyone well and said she would go spend her time drinking iced tea in her garden.
I felt like I was more worried than Mary was. But a few months ago, I tracked her down and it turned out that Mary is running her own company.
Mary’s story further cemented my belief that you should look out for you because you don’t know when things at a company may change and not be in your favour.
A few years later, I met Peter. Peter was a brilliant data analyst who worked part-time. He was quiet but when he did speak up, he always had something insightful to say. I had no clue how introvert me was so obsessed with Peter but she was. Despite his talent, Peter refused to work -time, prefering the convenience of being around for his family over a career. As a twenty-something it was the first time I had even heard of anything like this and I was fascinated.
Eventually a newspaper article came out that spoke about a toxic workplace- Peter’s former workplace.
All of a sudden it made sense as to why Peter was felt so strongly about his boundaries.
I would later go on to work for a toxic company and realise Peter had it right.
John was someone who worked in my toxic company. Unfortunately he and I had never met. But there I was at a company event when one of the managers asked about him- I don’t even remember his name but I remember the conversation. The one manager said to the other that John was “doing his own thing”. They both shared how difficult it was for them when they were starting out and then the conversation moved on.
I was intrigued, especially since we’d been talking with the recruiter who helped place us just a day earlier. As the conversation turned to former employees, I couldn’t help but notice the subtle smirks and exchanged glances. It became clear that whenever someone left, it wasn’t business as usual – there was always an undertone, almost as if their departure was a failure. The whole vibe was strange and unsettling.
I remember hearing about John and thinking that there was a pretty good chance that I would go the same way- forced to start my “own thing” as a result of choosing to work in this workplace. A couple months later, I watched as my colleague, Kim resigned because “it was time.” I was thrilled for her because Kim was brilliant and I felt like they were wasting her talent. But a few more months later, I discovered Kim had started her own business as while. At the time, I was freelancing so it was like I had started my own business as well.
Their journeys reminded me of the importance of looking out for yourself and that sometimes, the most fulfilling path doesn’t involve a 9-5. Each of them chose a path that honoured their values, even when it meant stepping away from traditional work environments. Whether within a company or on your own, there’s always a way to create a life that feels truly yours
Fiction Friday: Book Review- The Horse and His Boy by C.S. Lewis
The Horse and His Boy by C.S. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
I have a vague idea of the Chronicles of Narnia plotline, so when I read the books, I spend a significant amount of time trying to guess what happens based on what little I know.
For this book however, I knew nothing which made it all the more exciting.
Shasta runs away from his abusive father with a talking horse. Along the way, they meet a girl and another talking horse and uncover a plot to conquer Narnia.
This group tries to race to Narnia- a land that they’ve never been to before- before war begins.
This was a short read but still pretty fun. I’m a bit bummed that we don’t see more of these characters but I’m hoping maybe they’ll be back in later books.
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categories: Uncategorized
Building a daily routine that prioritises more than just work is essential for your overall well-being. It’s about making time for your personal growth, relationships, and relaxation- things that make life meaningful outside of your career.
So how do you create a balanced routine that leaves room for work and everything else? Here’s how to start:
1. Define Your Priorities
The first step is understanding what matters most to you beyond work. Is it your health, relationships, hobbies, or personal growth? Once you’ve identified these priorities, you can start making intentional choices about where your time and energy go each day.
For example, if spending time with family is a priority, you might set aside a specific time in your day to be fully present with them- no phones, no work talk. Or if health is high on your list, you can carve out time for exercise every morning.
2. Start with Small, Non-Negotiable Rituals
A balanced routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Start by introducing small, non-negotiable habits that support your priorities. These can be as simple as:
- Morning stretches or a 10-minute workout to prioritise physical health
- Journaling for your mental well-being
- Evening walks with a loved one to nurture your relationships
- Reading for 20 minutes to engage your mind beyond work tasks
By committing to even one small ritual that aligns with your priorities, you’ll begin to feel more balance in your day.
3. Block Time for Work, Rest, and Play
We tend to block off time for work but often neglect rest and play. A balanced routine ensures that you’re making time for all three. Here’s how:
- Work: Establish clear working hours that align with your energy peaks. If possible, schedule your most challenging tasks during your most productive hours.
- Rest: Make rest part of your routine. This could mean taking regular breaks throughout your workday, getting fresh air during lunch, or simply unplugging from technology for a while.
- Play: Yes, you need to schedule fun! Whether it’s watching your favorite show, working on a hobby, or spending time with friends, make room for activities that bring you joy.
4. Set Boundaries for a Healthier Work-Life Balance
To create a routine that’s truly balanced, you’ll need to set clear boundaries around your work time. This could mean:
- No work after a specific time (e.g., 6 p.m.) so you have space for personal time
- Blocking off weekends or evenings for rest and hobbies
- Turning off notifications during non-work hours to avoid distractions
The key is to protect your personal time as fiercely as you protect your work commitments. This allows you to recharge and show up fully for both work and life.
5. Prioritise Sleep and Self-Care
Sleep is often the first thing to go when we’re busy, but it’s crucial for maintaining balance. Make sure you’re getting enough rest each night by establishing a consistent bedtime routine. This could include winding down with a book, practising mindfulness, or dimming the lights to signal to your body that it’s time for rest.
In addition to sleep, self-care practices like eating nourishing meals, staying hydrated, and engaging in activities that relax you are essential for a well-rounded routine. Remember, self-care isn’t a luxury- it’s a necessity.
6. Be Flexible and Adjust as Needed
Life happens, and not every day will go according to plan. That’s okay. The beauty of a balanced routine is that it’s flexible. If you have a particularly busy day at work, don’t beat yourself up if you can’t fit in everything. Adjust and return to your routine the next day.
As long as you’re making an effort to prioritise more than just work most of the time, you’ll find that balance comes naturally.
7. Reflect and Refine Your Routine Regularly
Take time to reflect on your routine every few weeks. Ask yourself:
- Am I feeling balanced?
- What’s working well?
- Where do I need to make adjustments?
By regularly checking in with yourself, you can refine your routine to ensure it’s meeting your needs- not just for work, but for life outside of it too.
Fiction Friday: Book Review- The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis
The Magician’s Nephew by C.S. Lewis
My rating: 5 of 5 stars
Why does this book entertain me at almost thirty years old?
I was having a bad week and I saw the Chronicles of Narnia boxset in the bookstore and thought “hey I work hard. I deserve nice things!”
And so here we are.
I never read the books when I was a kid but I LOVED the movies. To purchase the entire boxset as an adult really healed my inner child but staying up on a Friday night unable to sleep until I completed the book was such a great feeling. (They really don’t make books like they used to).
I’m going to assume we all know of Narnia at this point.
This book serves as a prequel and explains how Narnia came to be. I kinda wish that I started with The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe to get the full experience but I didn’t hate this.
This was a fun little read and I cannot wait to finish the series.
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categories: Uncategorized
Many of us have been conditioned to equate productivity with worth, and that can make it hard to say “no” or protect our personal time. But here’s the truth: boundaries aren’t just important—they’re essential for your well-being, success, and longevity in your career. And, they don’t make you a bad employee; they make you a sustainable one.
If you’re struggling to set boundaries without feeling like you’re letting people down, you’re not alone. Let’s look at why boundaries matter and how you can set them guilt-free.
Why Boundaries Are Crucial
Boundaries are safeguards that protect your time, energy, and mental health. When you set clear boundaries, you:
- Prevent Burnout: Constantly overextending yourself will lead to exhaustion, and eventually, burnout. Boundaries allow you to rest and recharge so you can show up at your best.
- Enhance Productivity: Ironically, setting limits on your time can make you more productive. By avoiding constant interruptions and unnecessary tasks, you can focus on what really matters.
- Create Work-Life Balance: Healthy boundaries allow you to leave work at work, freeing up time for personal activities, relationships, and self-care.
How to Set Boundaries Without Feeling Guilty
1. Redefine Your Idea of Success
The first step is realising that setting boundaries doesn’t mean you’re slacking off. In fact, boundaries make you more effective and help you sustain long-term success. You’re not just working hard- you’re working smart. Redefining success to include well-being alongside productivity can help alleviate the guilt. You owe it to yourself to show up as your best self, and boundaries are a major part of that.
2. Start Small and Be Consistent
You don’t have to overhaul your entire work routine overnight. Start with small, manageable boundaries like not checking emails after a certain time or taking a lunch break away from your desk. Once you’re consistent with these smaller boundaries, they’ll become easier to maintain, and you can gradually set more.
3. Communicate Your Boundaries Clearly
Clear communication is key when setting boundaries. Let your manager and team know what your working hours are, when you’ll be available, and how you prefer to handle after-hours communication. When everyone’s on the same page, it reduces misunderstandings and pushback. For example, you could say, “I’m happy to assist with any urgent requests, but I’ll be offline after 6 p.m. and will get back to you first thing in the morning.” If you haven’t done this before, it might feel a little strange to you but with time and practice, it’ll start to feel more natural.
4. Detach from Guilt by Focusing on Your Well-Being
Remind yourself that setting boundaries is an act of self-care. It’s not selfish or lazy—it’s necessary to maintain your health and quality of work. Ask yourself: Would I want a friend or colleague to sacrifice their well-being for work? Likely, your answer is no. Extend that same grace to yourself.
5. Practice Saying ‘No’ Respectfully
Saying “no” doesn’t have to be a big deal. You can frame it in a way that shows you respect the other person’s request but need to prioritise your existing commitments. For example, “I’d love to help, but I’m at capacity with my current workload. Can we revisit this next week?”
6. Focus on the Bigger Picture
When guilt strikes, think about the long-term impact of not having boundaries. Are you really doing your best work if you’re constantly overworked, tired, and resentful? Protecting your time allows you to contribute meaningfully in the long run. A well-rested, focused version of you is far more valuable than a constantly overwhelmed one.
7. Embrace the Power of Delegation
If your workload is overwhelming, consider what tasks can be delegated or shared. Letting go of the belief that you need to do everything yourself can ease some of the guilt that comes with setting boundaries. You’re not abandoning responsibility; you’re being strategic about how to manage it and that’s perfectly okay.
Remember: Boundaries Are a Strength, Not a Weakness
Boundaries aren’t about pushing work away- they’re about managing your time and energy so you can be more present in both your personal life and your career. When you set clear limits, you’re setting yourself up for sustainable success. The guilt may never fully disappear, but with time, you’ll begin to see boundaries as the key to thriving at work- not just surviving.